2017 Ford Transit vs. 2017 RAM Promaster

If you're searching for a quality commercial van, you likely
have wondered about the 2017 Ford
Transit vs. the 2017 Ram Promaster. Both are capable vehicles, with
powerful engines, functional interiors and other features aimed at people who
need to work hard day after day. While it might appear the two vehicles are
essentially the same, under close scrutiny some key differences emerge. These
will greatly impact how useful either van will be, so understanding them before
making a final decision is incredibly important.

Capability

Being able to work hard day after day, in a variety of
conditions is absolutely vital. That's why the Ford Transit can be outfitted
with a 3.5-liter
EcoBoost V-6 engine. It uses turbocharging and direct injection to maximize
fuel economy, while still producing plenty of power. In fact, it produces 400
lb.-ft. of torque, which is more than the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 gasoline
engine for the Ram Promaster.

Adding to the wondrous capabilities of the Ford Transit is
the 3.7-liter V-6 engine, which can be outfitted with a CNG/Propane Gaseous
Engine Prep Package. It sets the van up to run on compressed natural gas (CNG)
or propane autogas, something you can't get from the Ram Promaster.

Even when you're driving on crowned or otherwise uneven road
surfaces with the Ford Transit, there's no need to make up for that with the
steering. The same is true when there's strong crosswinds on a stretch of road.
That's because Ford designed the electric power-assisted steering system to
automatically correct for these situations, something you don't benefit from
with the Ram Promaster.

With the Ford Transit, the 6-speed automatic transmission
includes a Progressive Range Select feature, which isn't available for the Ram
Promaster. It lets drivers limit which gears are available to use in drive, so
you reduce gear hunting and other performance issues when going through
especially hilly areas.

Having plenty of power is great, but even more important is
what you can do with it. Choosing the Ford Transit means you benefit from a
peak payload capacity of 4,560 pounds. That's amazing, considering it
outperforms the Ram Promaster. You can also load up to 420 pounds on the
ladders racks for the Ford Transit, so there's no need to leave things behind.

You can also tow more with the Ford Transit, thanks to a
peak towing capability of 7,500 pounds, when properly equipped. That outmuscles
the 5,100-pound max
towing capacity for the Ram Promaster. The advantages don't stop there,
because the Ford Transit can be outfitted with a trailer brake controller, for
better stopping performance, something not available for the Ram Promaster. Trailer
sway control, which automatically applies the brakes and cuts engine throttle
to keep the trailer from moving side-to-side too much, no matter the size or
weight of the load, is also included on the Ford Transit, but not the Ram
Promaster.

Design

When it comes to flexibility, the Ford Transit wins
hands-down. The van comes in passenger
wagon and cargo van layouts, plus three different lengths, three heights
and two wheelbases. That's more configurations that you can get with the Ram
Promaster

Advanced technologies can further enhance the design of a
vehicle. The Ford Transit has an available lane-keeping alert, which warns the
driver if the van starts drifting out of a marked lane by making noise and
vibrating the steering wheel. This isn't a feature that's available in the Ram
Promaster lineup.

If you're planning to upfit your van, the Ford Transit makes
it easier with optional high-capacity upfitter switches. They work with four
circuits and high-power relays, making them ideal for heavy-duty accessories.
Even better, the switches are part of the instrument panel, simplifying the
upfitting process. This isn't something you can get on the Ram Promaster,
making upfits more difficult.

Interior

Choosing the Ford Transit means you can get a van that's set
up to haul cargo, or one that's configured for moving people. Selecting the
Transit Passenger Wagon means you choose between 8 and 15 total seats. With the
Ram Promaster, you can only get 2 seats, so transporting large groups isn't an
option, without serious modifications.

With the Ford Transit Passenger Wagon, the vehicle is
equipped to protect everyone. A first for the industry, the van comes with
five-row side curtain airbags, so all passengers in outboard seats are covered.

If you need a cargo van, the Ford Transit can be had with up
to 487 cubic feet of cargo capacity, if you get the long wheelbase and extended
body, plus the high roof option. That's more than any version of the Ram Promaster
boasts, so you can carry more and increase productivity.

Conclusion

Now that it's obvious the Ford Transit is the superior van, contact us to set
up an appointment.